The Nigerian Medical Association, NMA, has suspended its planned nationwide strike, granting the Federal Government a 21-day ultimatum to address pressing demands related to doctors welfare, remuneration, and working conditions.
The decision was reached following an Emergency Delegates Meeting held in Abuja over the weekend. In a communiqué jointly signed by NMA President Prof. Bala Audu and Secretary-General Dr. Jamin Egbo, the association expressed deep concern over the unresolved welfare issues plaguing Nigeria’s health workforce, particularly medical doctors.
The NMA described the working conditions of its members as “difficult” and “demoralising,” calling on the government to take swift, sincere, and comprehensive steps to address the issues before the 21-day deadline expires.
The association’s current position was largely prompted by a circular dated June 27, 2025, from the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission, which outlined a review of the Consolidated Medical Salary Structure, CONMESS. The NMA said the circular was inconsistent with previously agreed terms, and they are demanding its withdrawal as a condition for industrial harmony.
In its communiqué, the association listed several critical demands including the resolution of discrepancies between CONMESS (for medical doctors) and CONHESS (for other health workers), which they argue has created unjust disparities. The NMA is also pushing for the full implementation of the 2001 Collective Bargaining Agreement, which stipulates professional allowances that have yet to be honoured.
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Other demands include the immediate payment of outstanding clinical duty and accoutrement allowances to doctors, many of whom continue to serve in challenging environments without appropriate compensation.
The association further called for a significant upward review of the 2025 Medical Residency Training Fund, arguing that it is currently insufficient to adequately support the development of resident doctors and the sustainability of the postgraduate medical education system in Nigeria.
While noting the strain on the country’s health sector, the NMA reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue, warning that further delays in implementation would lead to industrial unrest with serious implications for public health.
“The ball is now in the Federal Government’s court,” the statement read. “We have shown goodwill by suspending our planned action, and we expect the same level of seriousness from the authorities. These issues are long-standing and must not be allowed to fester.”
The association emphasized that a robust, responsive health system is impossible without a motivated and fairly treated medical workforce. It added that timely and transparent engagement from the government would help improve morale, prevent brain drain, and ultimately ensure better healthcare delivery to Nigerians.
NAN
